She said the funding was for the Concerts in the Park summer series, MAC's most popular activity. Total expenses for the series were $16,000. Paperwork she submitted stated a $10,000 shortfall despite donations and other income.

"From attendance estimates and assessments we did, it's appealing to locals and tourists," Mozier said. "The gallery shows are the second-favorite activity. We work hard to get outstanding groups from all over who play different types of music at the concerts."

Commissioner Brad Close said he agreed with Mozier to a point that the county should help MAC in supporting the concert series or other activities. He said he had talked to business owners who saw the advantage of the concerts bringing in tourists and locals to their businesses. But he said other businesses host their own concerts, so he wanted to discuss it in the public commission meeting.

"The MAC concerts are great," Close said. "I go to some. But with the government supporting MAC, then could the government be in competition with the private sector? Could you address that, Jeanne? Have you had this debate before?"

"Yes, I have," Mozier said. "MAC is committed to supporting artists. We pay these bands to come here and perform. They're not the same groups you'll see at Ambrae House, Troubadour or Hillbilly Heaven who play for a few dollars and free drinks. And families want to come to our shows (early) on Saturday evenings that won't go to those other settings."

She said it brings people to town for the early concert, and they stay in town to eat at local restaurants or attend concerts later in the evening at the other establishments who book bands.

"We let loose 300 or 400 people on the street by 7 p.m.," she said.

"That's the point I wanted you to make," Close said. "It's not a competition with the other business owners. This is a good use of the hotel/motel tax."

Mozier said she understood the philosophical position of government supporting one and not the other entity. But, she said, "if the government wasn't operating Cacapon State Park, we wouldn't have a tourism industry. And we will promote any other business' concerts or events. We have a weekly email message to 3,000 people and 12,000 a week are on our Berkeley Springs Facebook page. It's all free. All they have to do is email us."

Groups didn't get full amounts in June because of budget issues. Commissioner Stacy Dugan said the commission needed to stick by its policy of allocations in June and December only. Other groups would be turning in requests in coming weeks. And December is the next budget review.

Mozier understood that but wanted to know if she could count on the $5,000 in December.

"I don't see a problem with it," said Commissioner Brenda Hutchinson, "but we should stick to our schedule in fairness to everyone."